Best bike and car launches from Toyota, Hyundai, Tesla, more

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An undated image of Hyundai Sonata N Line. — Hyundai
An undated image of Hyundai Sonata N Line. — Hyundai

This week, the automotive industry witnessed a flurry of exciting breakthroughs and announcements. To keep you informed, Gadinsider has curated a comprehensive roundup of the most significant developments from across the globe.

Top automobile-related highlights of the week:

Toyota Urban Cruiser EV unveiled in UK

Toyota Urban Cruiser was debuted at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show in the United Kingdom (UK).

The Toyota Urban Cruiser comes with two lithium-iron-phosphate battery choices: a 61kWh battery with an option for all-wheel drive (AWD), and a relatively small 49 kWh battery with an FWD drivetrain.

This compact SUV’s wheelbase is about 5 inches longer than the European-only Yaris Cross.

It will be available in the UK markets in the third quarter of 2025, with starting price rumoured to exceed GBP 30,000.

Hyundai Inster EV launched in Japan

Hyundai Motor launched its compact electric vehicle (EV), the Hyundai Inster, in Japan.

This marks Hyundai’s strategic entry into a market traditionally dominated by local giants such as Toyota and Honda.

The Hyundai Inster has a spacious interior and a bold design. It is priced at JPY 2.85 million ($18,000).

Tesla upgraded Model Y launched in China

Tesla has unveiled a new-look Model Y in China, featuring a fresh design and updated features. This marks the first major update to this SUV since its launch in 2020.

The new Model Y, codenamed "Juniper," features a sleeker front end with sharper edges, similar to the updated Model 3.

The SUV is set to begin deliveries in China and select Asian-Pacific markets as early as March.

JAC T9 Hunter booking details revealed

For those waiting to own the T9 Hunter, JAC Motors has announced that bookings will open at 14 dealerships nationwide.

The T9 Hunter’s partial booking price is Rs2.5 million, making it a more affordable alternative to higher-priced models.

Meanwhile, the deliveries are scheduled to start in the first week of February 2025.

The all-new JAC T9 Hunter will be available for Rs9,750,000 in Pakistan.

Hyundai Sonata N Line launched in Pakistan

Hyundai Nishat Pakistan has officially launched its locally assembled 8th-generation Sonata N Line, boasting low-slung, elegant proportions, aggressive styling, and cutting-edge technology.

With its powerful engine, sporty design, and state-of-the-art features, the Sonata N Line is poised to set a new standard in the performance sedan category.

Sony Honda Mobility debuts Afeela 1 EV

Sony Honda Mobility has officially launched its first electric vehicle (EV), the Afeela 1, as a result of a joint venture between Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Company.

The Afeela 1 is powered by advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and houses over 40 sensors, including cameras, LiDAR, and radars.

The Origin trim of Afeela 1 is available for $89,900, while the Signature trim is priced at $102,900.

The company expects to launch sales in California as early as 2025, with the first deliveries anticipated to start in the second quarter of 2026.